Team play sparks Comets' hot start in SLL

May 8, 2008

Genoa's Zach Apel attempts to tag out Gibsonburg's A.J. Witte at second base during a game earlier this season. Apel's defensive play is one reason that the Comets have won six of their first seven league games. / Charlie Longton/News Herald

Written by

Sports Writer

If first-year Genoa baseball coach Dan Thompson was going to distribute a Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, Cy Young or most improved award for the season thus far he would find it quite difficult to distinguish a candidate in each category.

That's because the Comets won six of their first seven games in the Suburban Lakes League while getting contributions all around.

Despite allowing over a hit an inning, Genoa's defense has helped push the team to a 9-7 overall record.

"All nine have stepped up and made plays when needed," Thompson said.

Second baseman Zak Apel may have the most web gems.

"Apel has made a lot of big plays," Thompson said. "He's a playmaker at second base defensively."

Apel snared a line drive and took the ball to second to complete a double play in a victory over Woodmore last week.

Connor Wendt and Justin Lau have been Genoa's top two pitchers but Troy Espinoza and Matt Bassitt have also had an impact.

"We've had three or four guys throw well," Thompson said. "We're really pleased."

Lau beat Gibsonburg and the Wildcats in his last two league starts while Espinoza earned a victory against Lakota.

"Espinoza threw a complete game Monday (Raiders on April 28) to save the staff after Saturday's doubleheader," Thompson said.

Thompson said Bassitt has been working on his mechanics.

"He'll get it straightened out," Thompson said. "We have four quality pitchers."

Thompson said production at the plate has come throughout the lineup.

"Lau was hot early. Then Bassitt was hitting well," Thompson said. "(Beau) Lamb is hot now. Apel's hitting well. It's been a mix. It's a pleasure that it's not one guy that has to hit to carry us. We're able to be consistent."

Justin Adkins is hitting under .200 in non-conference games but his average jumps to around .350 in the SLL.

Lamb, Espinoza and Callan Bailorucki are the top candidates for most improved.

"(Lamb's) been a really pleasant surprise," Thompson said. "He's hit well and played a solid first base to shore up the infield."